Those who live in comfort,
or are opportunists,
or who seek reservations,
say, “We are Adivasis.”

Those who want votes
say, “You are Adivasis.”

Those who preach religion
say, “You jungle Adivasis are savage.”

Those who believe
they are the real original inhabitants
say, “You are forest dwellers.”

But those who walk barefoot,
silently, along forest trails,
never say
“We are Adivasis.”

They know how to heal themselves
with wild herbs.
They understand the moods of the weather
by watching the movements of animals.

All the trees and plants,
mountains and hills,
rivers and waterfalls
know who they are.